ROBBY THE SPACE PATROL ROBOT (REPLICA)

Updated: March 21, 2007

The original Robby Space Patrol issued by the Japanese Toy Company Nomura in 1957. Long the subject of collectors desire, the exceedingly rare Robby Space Patrol, by Nomura, has inspired a culture of legend. Upon release, the story goes, MGM enjoined Nomura from further sales of the toy, as it infringed upon the studio's intellectual property rights from Forbidden Planet, released in 1956 to international acclaim. While there is no doubt Nomura lifted this toy directly from the film, such a theory doesn't explain why Nomura was rejoined on this toy, yet was left free by MGM attorneys to continue knocking off Robby as Mechanized Robot (1950's) and Piston Action Robby (1950's). And no, the use of the name "Robby" on this toy wasn't the final straw which drew attorney ire. Best guess: the toy didn't sell enough to continue production. Stunning lithography, mystery action, and authentic down to the tiered pilot on which Robby rides - in a world of superlatives, there is only one greatest: Robby Space Patrol by Nomura.

Value: (Mint with Box) $30,000-Up (I have a reproduction in my collection, and I'm happy as a lark to have one!)

This reproduction was re-issued by the same Japan toy Company in 1993. Limited to only 500 ever made, it is 12" long with bump-n-go action. Including blinking lights and a rotating Robby the Robot. One of the greatest toys ever made on this classic sci-fi film.